- Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
On Thursday, September 14, the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) and Roxbury Community College (RCC) celebrated the graduation of 15 students from the IT Support Professionals program. In its third year, the program offers students with disabilities the opportunity to earn a cyber-security certificate and real-world experience as information technology (IT) support professionals.
"Today is a celebration," said Salvador Pina, Head of Workforce & Business Development at RCC. "You've been able to achieve something," Pina told the graduates who attended the event in person and virtually. RCC President Jackie Jenkins-Scott told graduates that she was honored to be there to congratulate them. "It's important that we acknowledge accomplishment and acknowledge achievement, she said. "All of you have worked so hard." She was thrilled to share that five graduates were now colleagues, working at RCC after finishing the program.
The ceremony paused to remember Ronn Boston, a student who had passed away but had successfully completed the course and had earned a certificate. Bill Allen, MRC's Director of Statewide Job Placement services, said, "I am sure Ronn would love to join the celebration. His spirit is with us here today."
MRC Commissioner Toni Wolf applauded the graduates for their accomplishments and shared two simple words of encouragement, "You matter." "We all need to take time out of our day and remind ourselves of that," Commissioner Wolf shared. Joan Phillips, the Assistant Commissioner of Vocational Rehabilitation, celebrated the graduates and the partnership between RCC and MRC. "RCC has worked diligently with us to ensure the curriculum and training are relevant in the current labor market," Phillips shared. She told students that because they completed the program, they "can impact change and pave the way for other individuals with disabilities in the workforce."
"I want to express my gratitude to MRC and RCC for creating such a unique technology program to teach students like me and my classmates," said Janel Miller, the student speaker and a newly hired member of the IT department at RCC. "This program has provided us with valuable opportunities and experiences that contributed to our growth and development."
After the students received their certificates, Marta Rosa, the EVP to the President, reminded the graduates that they were now alumni and were a part of the college's network of graduates, faculty, and staff. "We just don't let you go," Rosa said. "Stay connected. We want to support you. We want to keep working with you. She told the graduates, "We are honored and privileged to celebrate your achievement."
